Best Way To Pick Up Crab Apples
Crab apples are a type of apple that are smaller in size and have a sour or tart taste. They are commonly used for making jams, jellies, and cider. If you have a crab apple tree or are planning to pick some up at your local farmers market, it's important to know how to pick them up properly to ensure that they are ripe and ready for use. In this article, we'll go over the best way to pick up crab apples.
Wait for Them to Ripen
The first step in picking crab apples is to wait for them to ripen. Crab apples typically ripen in early fall, around September or October, depending on your geographical area. You can tell if a crab apple is ripe by its color, texture, and flavor. When they are ripe, their color will turn from green to yellow, orange, or red. They will also feel soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma.
Choose The Right Time of Day
You should always choose the right time of day to pick up your crab apples. The best time to pick crab apples is in the morning when it's cool outside. This is because the apples will be firmer and less likely to bruise. Avoid picking them in the hot afternoon sun as it can cause the apples to be soft and bruised, making them unsuitable for use.
Pick Them Carefully
When picking up your crab apples, it's important to do so carefully. You should never pull on the apple as it can damage the tree and other fruits around it. Instead, twist the apple gently until it comes off the stem. If the apple doesn't come off easily, it's not ripe yet, and you should wait for a few more days before trying again.
Use a Basket or Bucket
Always use a basket or bucket to collect your crab apples. This will make it easier to carry them and prevent them from getting damaged or crushed. You can also place a towel or paper in the basket to cushion the apples and keep them from bruising.
Inspect the Apples
Once you've picked up your crab apples, it's important to inspect them carefully. Look for any bruises, blemishes, or signs of insect damage. Discard any apples that are damaged or rotten as they can spoil the rest of your batch.
Store Them Properly
Proper storage is crucial to preserve the quality of your crab apples. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze them for later use. If you're planning to make jelly or cider, you can store them in a cool, dark place at room temperature for up to a month. Just make sure to check them regularly for signs of spoilage.
Conclusion
Picking up crab apples requires patience, care, and attention to detail. By waiting for them to ripen, choosing the right time of day, picking them carefully, using a basket or bucket, inspecting them, and storing them properly, you can enjoy the delicious flavor of crab apples in your favorite recipes.
